Social Security Made Simple

Social Security Made Simple

Social Security Made Simple

Everything you'll need to know before applying for Social Security

Retirement social security benefits are the most widely received, and are an entitlement that you have paid into your whole working life. Your benefit calculation is based on what you have paid in, usually your last five years of employment. Depending on your year of birth you can start receiving early social security benefits starting at age 62, and full benefits from age 65. There is, however, good reason to work longer, as your benefit amount increases with every month you wait. Apply for your benefit three months prior to your retirement.

If you are a surviving spouse you also have social security eligibility and can claim benefits based on the earnings of the deceased. There is also a one-time death payout of $250 that is payable to the surviving spouse or next of kin. If you are divorced, you can claim benefits in your former spouse's name providing the marriage lasted ten years or more. These payments are also based on earnings and do not reduce the amounts paid to others receiving benefits on the deceased worker's record.

Others meeting the criteria of social security eligibility are unmarried children under age 18, following the death of a parent, or age 19, if the minor child is a full-time elementary or secondary school student. Disabled children are entitled to benefits provided the disability occurred before age 22. The same category extends social security benefits to dependent parents if the deceased contributed one-half or more of the parent's support.

These benefits are the most difficult to obtain and they are also the most widely misunderstood. The first thing you must do to claim social security benefits if you are disabled is prove the disability. You will also have to meet social security eligibility requirements based on both your age when you became disabled, and the length of time you worked under social security. Once your doctor has provided medical documentation of a disability that will last at least a year, or result in death, your claim will be reviewed. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. At that time it might be advisable to obtain legal representation. Look for an attorney that specializes in disability claims and has a proven track record. Disability social security payments automatically convert to retirement benefits when you reach retirement age, but the amount remains the same.

Remember, no benefit is automatic. All must be applied for. Most, but not all, applications can be made online, or through a preset telephone appointment. You will need proof of your social security eligibility. Documentation can include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, and medical records. Contact the Social Security Administration either online or through your local office for details and applications.

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